Lonely work but now not alone.
I am finding the picture of trailhead so very apt for the work that has begun and now will start in earnest. This week I have perceived a swelling hopefulness as we have gathered together from so many different places to share in the trail ahead. I am thankful for the voices that have gone ahead and the encouragement that I – where I am – am invited into peacemaking as a way of being.
I know that the journey will be painful, filled with doubts and surprises (like any good hike). Swirling questions remain: Have I done enough to prepare? Is this the right time? Can I tolerate the pain? I sense that the lasting rewards, the transforming moments, are likely to be quiet, personal and intense. Promise of that type of transformation empowers me to say yes- to jump in with both feet.
I am thankful that we are on this journey together. It is a grace and blessing to not be alone. I will join you in the lonely work.
Ironically, after ignoring, denying or running from this work for too long: I am so eager to get going! The tension of accepting that the work is slow, but the ongoing damage and trauma is so urgent will need further unpacking with you all.
I am resonating that we are imperfect peacemakers, and will make mistakes. Needing courage and wisdom to act while still in process, and not keep waiting until I have arrived.
4 comments
I really feel the questions your are posing here in my own soul this week. As the crush of work travel, family commitments, and winter sickness have descended on our family this week I have also wondered if I was nuts to add JOH into the mix of this season. Growth is never really convenient though right? Thanks for naming these things and allowing them to mix with enthusiasm as well.
Ben. Was walking your dog this morning as a part of my preparation for the Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage. It got me reflecting on how I prepared similarly for the Camino de Santiago. In both cases, preparation for the trail is good, but, as they say on the Camino, “the Camino prepares you for the Camino.” It’s in getting up every day and continuing the walk, in community with others, through the discomfort, beckoned on by those who have gone before us, that we find ourselves not only navigating the journey but being transformed as we go. I love that you’re eager for the journey and seduced by visions of the destination. And, I’m humbled to walk the path with you. Buen Camino, my friend.
Ben, I resonate with your expansion of the trailhead metaphor. I appreciated your naming of questions as I found myself nodding in agreement with so many of them. As you named that we are on this journey together, I am curious if you have a sense of how best you like to be supported when you are embarking on a difficult and important journey?
Great question, M. Eager to hear your thoughts, B.